Ecuadorian club Barcelona announced today the death of their player Mario Pineida following a shooting incident, in a shocking piece of news that shook the sports community in the country and sparked a wave of sadness within the club and among its fans.

The club stated in an official statement: "The Barcelona Sports Club announces with deep sorrow that it has been officially informed of the death of our player Mario Peñeda, which occurred following an attack. This sad news has deeply saddened all of us who are part of this institution, and it grieves us as the Barcelona family."

The statement added that the club will reveal the details of the events to be organized in the coming hours to commemorate the late player and honor him in a manner befitting his career and affiliation with the club.

The passing of Mario Benítez is a painful loss for Ecuadorian football, as official investigations into the circumstances of the incident are still underway, amid widespread calls for holding those responsible accountable and providing greater protection for athletes.